Convert the task into a research question
Identify the exact topic, scope and instruction word before searching. “Discuss causes” calls for explanation and supporting evidence, while “evaluate” asks you to assess strengths, weaknesses and implications.
Define your key terms and draft two or three questions that your reading must answer. This prevents collecting irrelevant pages without forming an argument.
Choose sources based on the question
Begin with the official course material and readings recommended by the unit. For a research claim, use credible books, academic papers, institutional reports and appropriately dated data.
Check who produced a source, when it was published, whether it supports its claims, and whether its findings apply to the place or period you are discussing. A social-media post may show public opinion but is rarely enough to establish a scientific fact.
Take notes without copying paragraphs
Record an idea in your own words and keep the author, title, year, publication and page number where relevant. Separate direct quotations from paraphrases so you cannot accidentally submit someone else’s wording as your own.
Your writing should connect sources to the argument you are building rather than merely listing copied definitions.
Make references traceable
Follow the citation style and title-page format requested by your course or facilitator. Include in-text citations and a corresponding reference list when required; ensure that every citation points to a real source you used.
Illustrative reference workflow
- Source note: Author, publication year, full title, publisher or journal, relevant page.
- Draft claim: Clearly explain the finding or concept in your own language.
- Citation: Use the specified course style, e.g. author–date where instructed.
- Reference list: Supply the matching complete publication details. Never invent a source to make an assignment look more academic.
Review the final submission honestly
Read the assignment against its marking criteria. Confirm that you answered every subquestion, used evidence appropriately and followed word limits or formatting requirements.
Before uploading, confirm the correct file, deadline and permitted format on the official learning platform. Keep a copy of submission confirmation if available.
Your practical checklist
- I answered the actual task rather than a related topic.
- Every factual claim has an appropriate basis.
- My quotations and paraphrases are distinguishable.
- My citations refer to genuine sources I consulted.
Apply what you learned using the corresponding PsalmEduLabs student tool.
Explore course materials →Official sources to check: University policies, dates and assessment instructions can change. Confirm course-specific details in the official NOUN resources.
Prepared by PsalmEduLabs as independent educational guidance. Not issued or endorsed by the National Open University of Nigeria.